Hi,
I took a chance on a used Mauser 98 in .35Whelen. The previous owner stated it was put together 6 years ago, No.3. contour Douglas barrel, Timney trigger, low swing safety, Williams streamline front sight, folding Lyman rear sight, Brown Precision stock with Decelerator. The trigger is excellent and it feeds beautifully and will close on single loaded rounds. It came with weaver bases (the standard aluminum version #s 45,46). The barrel and action have also been parkerized. What do you think is a fair market value for this piece?

Thanks,
NorthGaAire

Do you know the seller and is he a friend?

How much is he asking for it?

And, how much is it worth to you; what's your mindset?

The reason I ask is if this were a one-time transaction where I would never the see the seller again, I'd open the deal with a low price and negotiate. However, if I knew the guy, I'd most likely spend a more just because he's a friend.

Otherwise, it sounds like you have a very nice sporter calling your name. If it shot straight and I wanted it bad enough, I may not let it pass me by.

Just my $.02.

Sounds to me like you already bought it and are wondering if you got a good deal. Without a lot more information it would be just a guess. I have bought nice sporterized 98s from as low as $200 up to $750 and was happy with the purchase.

Key thing is are you happy with the purchase. When I make a sale or purchase of anything. I stop looking. Does me no good to know that 4 weeks later someone has a better price. Or worry about the fact that what I sold went to the first buyer with no fuss. If I was satisfied at the time is what counts.

Oh, I have already bought it for less than $375. I thought it was a good deal considering the amount of riflesmithing $$ that was spent on it. I plan on putting a fresh coat of paint on the stock - probably Steyr green. I could not pass up a Whelen for that amount. I already have a Ruger MKII in .35Whelen with a AA walnut stock so this mauser would be the 'working' version or a fine 35 caliber for the baby boy when he is old enough (he's 3 now).

Thanks,

Sounds to me you both got a fair deal.

I will give you $400

Here is a photo of my Whelen collection:

[url="http://www.hunt101.com/?p=286492&c=500&z=1"] [/url]

Now both Whelens:
[url="http://www.hunt101.com/?p=286493&c=500&z=1"] [/url]